Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property118. Read the original article for full details.

Over 441,000 PRS Homes Fail New Thermal Comfort Standards Under HHSRS

More than 441,000 private rented sector (PRS) homes are failing to meet thermal comfort standards, according to new data. Research by Inventory Base shows that around 40% of PRS homes fall short as updated Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) rules came into force last week.

The government has announced that landlords could face on-the-spot fines of £7,000 for severe damp and mould under new council powers. The revised HHSRS system, which started last week, reduces hazard categories from 29 to 21, replaces A–J ratings with a high, medium, and low risk system, and places greater emphasis on both excessive cold and overheating risks.

Inventory Base has highlighted growing concerns about temperature-related housing safety, especially as UK summers become hotter. The company notes that while thermal comfort deficiencies under the revised HHSRS are distinct from overheating hazards, both issues underline the importance of ensuring homes remain safe and habitable throughout the year.

The firm also warns that excess heat hazards can result from excessive solar gain, poor shading, inadequate ventilation, and building features that prevent safe indoor temperatures. The government has confirmed that all private and social landlords will need to meet the Decent Homes Standard (DHS) by 2035.

These changes are particularly relevant for letting agents and inventory clerks, who must now consider both winter and summer risks when assessing property safety and compliance.